A major shift in the global obesity and diabetes drug market has unfolded as the patent for semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic from Novo Nordisk, has expired in several countries, including India.
As a result, multiple pharmaceutical companies are preparing to launch branded generic versions immediately following the patent expiry on March 20. Industry estimates suggest that between 15 and 50 such products could enter the market on day one, significantly intensifying competition.
Surge in Partnerships to Capture Market Share
In anticipation of this shift, companies have formed strategic partnerships to expand their reach. For instance, Novo Nordisk has collaborated with Emcure Pharmaceuticals and Abbott. Meanwhile, Zydus Lifesciences has partnered with Lupin and Torrent Pharmaceuticals.
Similarly, Natco Pharma has tied up with Eris Lifesciences, while Biocon has partnered with Ajanta Pharma. In addition, several major players—including Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, MSN Laboratories, Mankind Pharma, and Alkem Laboratories—are actively preparing to enter the segment.
Sharp Price Reductions Expected
With the influx of generics, prices are expected to drop significantly. Industry representatives indicate that generic versions could cost 60% less than the innovator products, and in some cases, as low as one-third or even one-fifth of the original price.
Experts Urge Caution Amid Rapid Expansion
However, the rapid expansion of lower-priced injectable semaglutide has raised concerns among experts. They caution that increased availability may lead to misuse and potential adverse events.
Recently, authorities in India also warned against “surrogate” promotions of these prescription drugs under the guise of awareness campaigns. Therefore, stricter regulatory oversight may become necessary as the market evolves.
Limited Approvals and Differentiation Strategies
According to industry experts, only a limited number of generic versions have received approval in India so far. Nevertheless, companies are expected to differentiate their offerings through innovations such as improved drug delivery devices and enhanced patient convenience.
Legal and Safety Concerns Raised
Concerns over transparency and safety have also emerged. Fitness platform founder Jitendra Chouksey previously approached the Delhi High Court, questioning the approval process and promotion of these drugs.
He warned that increased usage could lead to a rise in complications, including pancreatitis, and emphasized the need for greater regulatory accountability.
Early Market Moves and Pricing Strategies
Even before the patent expiry, Novo Nordisk had taken steps to strengthen its position. The company launched Wegovy in June 2025 as a once-weekly injectable device available in multiple dose strengths. Subsequently, it reduced the price of the starting dose by up to 37% in November to enhance accessibility.
Additionally, Novo Nordisk partnered with Emcure to introduce another semaglutide brand, while Abbott, its distributor in India, also announced plans to launch its own version.
Competition from Other GLP-1 Therapies
Meanwhile, Eli Lilly has established an early presence in India’s obesity drug market with Mounjaro (tirzepatide). The company later partnered with Cipla to market the drug under a different brand name at the same price point. Notably, Mounjaro has recorded sales of approximately ₹100 crore in recent months.
Growing Market for GLP-1 Drugs
These medications belong to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class, which mimics a natural hormone in the body to stimulate insulin production in response to food intake.
As reported by Business Line, the GLP-1 segment in India has shown strong growth, reaching approximately ₹1,446 crore in the 12 months leading up to February 2026. While Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro currently holds a dominant market share of over 60%, Novo Nordisk’s semaglutide products continue to gain traction, according to Pharmarack data.
Outlook: Expanding Access with Cautious Optimism
Overall, the expiry of the semaglutide patent marks a turning point for the obesity and diabetes treatment landscape. While increased competition is expected to improve affordability and access, stakeholders must balance growth with safety, regulatory oversight, and responsible use.